Ophthalmic naloxone elicits abstinence in opioid-dependent subjects
Sanchez-Ramos, J.R.; Senay, E.C.
British Journal of Addiction 82(3): 313-315
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0952-0481 PMID: 3471262 Document Number: 302402
Ophthalmic instillation of naloxone into the conjunctival sac of one eye can elicit bilateral mydriasis in volunteers maintained on daily methadone. Unlike previous reports, signs of a generalized withdrawal syndrome were recorded. Anisocoria was noted in one of the patients but both pupils were dilated relative to baseline. The conclusion drawn was that the opthalmic noloxone test can elicit a generalized withdrawal syndrome and should not be used routinely to detect the presence of opiate dependence.